Real Time Fault Level Monitor RTFLM

Real Time Fault Level Monitor (RTFLM)

The first ever compact unit capable of measuring Peak and RMS Prospective Short-Circuit Current (Fault Level) in Real Time.

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About the RTFLM

The Real Time Fault Level Monitor (RTFLM) can deliver MEASURED Prospective Fault Level Results in real time at LV and MV (up to 33kV).

Installed in network substations, the RTFLM is a standalone cubicle designed to collate prospective Fault Level results generated through the measurement of a number of very small artificial disturbances over a short period. Results can be continuously available but are typically averaged over 10 seconds (selectable). The Prospective Fault Level at the measurement point can be transmitted in real time over the SCADA system, making it the first compact instrument capable of generating real time measurements that can be used by those managing the network.

The Fault Level (short circuit current) data can either be requested from the unit when needed or will regularly and automatically be sent back through the network communication system to the relevant control centre, with a view to being used to actively manage the network based on what the Fault Level actually is at the time.

The RTFLM uses the ground breaking technology found in our Natural Disturbances Fault Level Monitor, the PM7000FLM, coupled with a built in artificial disturbance generator to remove the need for a necessary level of ‘activity’ on the network, and a radial network measurement position, to produce results. For more information on our small, portable PM7000FLM and how it works, please click here.

Innovation sponsored by OFGEM

The development of the Real Time Fault Level Monitor (RTFLM) has been part of an NIA (Network Innovation Allowance) Project run by SP Energy Networks (SPEN). Stage 1 of this project, currently in progress, is the installation of 2 units on the SPEN Network to accurately predict the MV (11kV) network Prospective Fault Level in Real Time.

Stage 2 of SPENS project, with the inclusion of UK Power Networks (UKPN) into the project team, began in early 2020 was to install a further 8 units on the SPEN network (4 in England and 4 in Scotland) with a further 6 on the UKPN network. This project was to explore how best to actively manage the network based on Real Time Fault Level Results.

For more information on this project with SPEN, visit our Project Partner Page here.

What does this mean for the future?

We anticipate installation of these units in substations and at industrial sites worldwide to help combat problems and constraints faced due to Fault Level being either too high (in more densely populated/industrial areas) or too low (in outlying regions).

Sites have already been earmarked in the UK for RTFLM installation to facilitate new customer connections. These are locations with a believed Fault Level Capacity issue, where, following connection, certain circumstances could take the Fault Level over the local rating limit.

Monitoring the Fault Level, obtaining up to date information, will enable the unique situation where a customer can be disconnected when the Fault Level reaches a predetermined limit. The installation of an RTFLM and an agreement to adhere to an Active Network Management Contract of this type is likely to be a far more attractive proposition than a charge for millions of pounds (£) worth of network reinforcement.

 

This technology will enable:

  • Increased network safety, reducing risk of operating above design limits
  • Validation of models to release additional firm capacity
  • Increased network operability / security. Allow greater interconnection
  • The introduction of Active Network Management based on Fault Level
  • The offering of a new connection customers the choice of a ‘Flexible Connection’. Agreeing to disconnection when Fault Level reaches a pre-determined limit
  • Faster / cheaper connections for customers, increasing the uptake of Low Carbon Technology
  • Greater visibility / understanding of the network Fault Level – seasonal variability and contribution from customers

For more information please contact us.

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Fault Level Monitors to Validate ENWL RESPOND Project Network models

Fault level monitors – Outram fault level monitors have been installed at seven [Electricity North West] Respond [Project] sites. These monitors will validate our network model and the Fault Level Assessment Tool. Electricity North West Ltd RESPOND Project Newsletter, May 2016.

Electricity North West Ltd RESPOND Project Newsletter, May 2016.
I have been quite astounded at the detail the Outram Data Logger has captured.

During communications regarding the 3 PM7000TIs that Bob is managing remotely, with new data sent back to him over email every 24 hrs, he told us that he has been finding detail in the recordings he never thought he would see. “I have been quite astounded at the detail the Outram Data Logger has captured.”

Bob King, Power Phase Services, UK
By far the best project partner I have ever worked with!

Thank you for all the help and support you all gave me on the RTFLM project… It was an absolute privilege to work with you all and Outram are by far the best project partner I have ever worked with!

Cameron Scott, Innovation Engineer, UK Power Networks, 2022
…calculation of fault level trivial in comparison to the ‘manual’ methods

The Outram equipment (and associated software) makes calculation of fault level trivial in comparison to the ‘manual’ methods.

Rob Weller, Rina Consulting, UK Power Networks Earth Fault Level Project
….Commendable for its ease of use and portability

The Outram equipment is commendable for its ease of use and portability.

Rob Weller, Rina Consulting, UK Power Networks Earth Fault Level Project
Bluetooth functionality with PMScreen and real time monitoring is sensational.

Thank you so much for attending to [my support query], and so quickly! Very impressed with these [PM3000] power analysers and the Bluetooth functionality with PMScreen and real time monitoring is sensational.

Euan Galbally, Operations Project Engineer - Supply Restoration, SSE.
Outram PM7000FLM proved capable of reliably assessing Fault Level

The Outram PM7000FLM and associated software proved to be capable of reliably assessing / calculating fault level from both repeated low-level steps, as well as one-off larger pulses.

Rob Weller, Rina Consulting, UK Power Networks Earth Fault Level Project, March 2018
The analyser did everything that we needed. We were also impressed with how quickly it got across the US.

The analyser did everything that we needed. Rob was surprised at how easily it went on.

We were also impressed with how quickly it got across the US. It was there before we even left [the UK] and we didn’t expect that to happen.

It’s a specialised subject and the support we received from Duncan was second to none.

Chris Brookes, Simpson and Wood, UK Feb 2019
That’s a hell of a piece of Kit!

That’s a hell of a piece of Kit!

Now I’ve seen what it can do I’m going to mention it to another customer here in the UK who I know is having trouble.”

Rob Rose, Simpson and Wood, UK Feb 2019
…PM3000 is the best product in my shop

The reason I think your PM3000 is the best product in my shop is the reliability and the software. I use 5 different brands of recorders and this one by far has been the most reliable. The software updates are great, with the 60 day reminders. The layout of the software and every single function make it simple and user friendly unlike most products.

Greg Ellis, Electrical District #3, Arizona USA, 2014
It’s shown me just how much time your software is going to save me!

What you showed me this morning and what I’ve been doing this afternoon has shown me just how much time your software is going to save me!

Bob King, Power Phase Services, UK (Contracting for Network Rail)
Your kit knocks spots of the bigger manufacturers

Your kit knocks spots of the bigger manufacturers.

Andrew Williams, MD, Smart Electrical Systems, Sept 2018
It’s an amazing piece of Kit!

I certainly will be hiring another PM7000 again. It’s an amazing piece of kit!

Stuart Turner, PCAS (Power Control and Automation Solutions) Ltd, Feb 2020
The Outram PM7000FLM … software made analysis of fault-current straightforward

We found the Outram PM7000FLM useful for capturing data, and its software made analysis of fault-current straightforward. Other methods of data capture can be used, but would require further development to accurately give fault level information; the area where the FLM scores is its ease of use, and also that statistical analysis is applied over the whole test period, rather than at a ‘snapshot’ of one event as our analysis. This makes it less prone to noise and other disturbances on the system.

Rob Weller, Rina Consulting, UK Power Networks Earth Fault Level Project, March 2018
I have used data loggers in the past… Not in the same league as the Outram equipment

Thank you for all your fantastic efforts yesterday.

I have used data loggers in the past but they were not in the same league as the Outram equipment.

Last December when Network Rail asked me to install PQ monitoring I looked at hiring a couple of [competitor] PQ monitors. I had a Network Rail Graduate alongside me and I thought it would be a good learning exercise for him. As I began to understand the railway electrification system I realised [these] were a non-starter, so when the local electricity board ‘turned the screw’ I decided to look deeper.

I discovered Outram and when I read about your collaboration with Scottish Power I immediately realised the Outram equipment was the only one to consider. From what I have seen since yesterday morning I know I was correct in contacting your company.

Bob King, Power Phase Services, UK (Contracting for Network Rail)
“These [PM7000s] really are pucker units”

Following successful measurements using 2 of our PM7000 Power Quality Hire units…

“We captured some good stuff, these [PM7000s] really are pucker units.”

Shaun Smith, Firstfield Electrical Ltd, March 2021

 

Shaun Smith, Firstfield Electrical Ltd, March 2021
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